What Is a SAP Basis Consultant?
SAP stands for Systems, Applications, and Products in Data Processing. SAP is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software that allows users to run their business operations, including accounting, sales, production, human resources, and finance, in a consolidated environment. SAP Basis is the system administration platform for SAP software, making sure that all systems are running smoothly. SAP Basis consultants provide technical support and leadership for SAP systems, which can include implementing standards and requirements, overseeing upgrades, establishing processes for monitoring performance, and system configuration, design, and application.
| Educational Requirements | Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience |
| Job Skills | SAP Basis and all SAP systems, leadership, written and verbal communication skills, troubleshooting |
| Median Salary (December 2021)* | $88,520 (all SAP consultants) |
| Job Outlook (2020-2030)** | 7% (for all computer systems analysts) |
Sources: *Payscale.com; **U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Required Education
A bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field is typically required for this position. Some employers, however, may consider candidates with extensive work experience as computer software professionals instead of a degree. SAP offers technical certifications for numerous levels of SAP Basis administration. SAP certification is available directly from SAP and from other vendors. Certification is not usually required but can be helpful for Basis professionals in advancing their careers and skill levels. It's also important for SAP Basis consultants to continue their education by attending workshops and seminars in order to stay up-to-date with changing technology.
Required Skills
SAP Basis consultants need to be proficient in SAP Basis and all SAP systems. They will head use of Basis and subsequent upgrades and technical support at their organization, so leadership and communication skills and are a must. Basis consultants also need to have an analytical mind to provide troubleshooting for sometimes complex software issues.
Career Outlook and Salary
SAP is one of the largest enterprise resource planning (ERP) companies in the world, spanning across many different industries, including retail, banking, universities, and hospitals. It's estimated that 77% of all global business transactions work with a SAP system, according to a 2018 SAP corporate fact sheet. A SAP Basis consultant will stay in demand as businesses continue to use this successful business management software. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the employment of computer systems analysts is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, which is as fast as the average compared to all occupations. Payscale.com reports that the median salary for SAP consultants in December 2021 was $88,520.
Related Careers
Below are a few careers related to that of a SAP Basis consultant.
